WittKieffer is assisting the University of West Florida in this search. Nominations, inquiries, and applications should be directed to: Jessica Herrington and Natalie Song at UWFResearch@wittkieffer.com. Applicants are required to attach a cv, letter of interest addressing the themes of this leadership position, and contact information for three references. Please provide these items as separate documents. The preferred response date for applications is June 14, 2024.

The University of West Florida invites applications and nominations for the position of Associate Vice President of Research.

The University has set ambitious goals for the expansion of its externally supported research and seeks a dynamic, innovative leader with a strong vision and commitment to the continued development and increase of research, grants, and external support; research integrity and compliance; and technology transfer. Current grant and contract activity is approximately $26,000,000 annually.

Reporting to the Provost, the Associate Vice President is a key member of the University’s academic leadership team. In addition to providing strategic direction for research and sponsored grants and contracts, the AVP promotes the enhancement of teaching, learning, and research through scholarship and creative activities. The AVP represents UWF’s research interests and initiatives in regional, state, and national forums. This academic leader is responsible for formulating a clear vision for the role of research, scholarship, and external funding within the mission of the institution and works with faculty, deans, chairs, and directors in colleges, centers, and institutes to promote and implement that vision. This is a 12-month full- time position and the faculty rank will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of the selected finalist.

Minimum Qualifications: Holds the highest degree appropriate to the field or possesses equivalent qualifications based on professional experience, and be otherwise qualified to perform assigned duties. The appointee engages in teaching, scholarship and creative projects, and/or service and other related activities.

 

Position Qualifications: At least five years of relevant work experience within an organization of similar size and complexity in research, research administration, business, or operations is required as is a Ph.D. or other terminal degree. Other requirements include experience establishing and maintaining systems, processes, and productive research policies to effectively manage a complex federal, industry, and non-profit sponsored award portfolio in a compliant manner; a demonstrated record of analytical, data-driven decision-making; exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills; and a demonstrated ability to manage an organization and its people during periods of growth and change.

 

Preferred Qualifications: The ideal candidate has a record of winning competitive federal grants or of serving as a Principal Investigator on federal contracts and grants.

The University of West Florida is a comprehensive regional state institution of higher learning in Pensacola. Serving over 14,000 students, the University is home to four academic colleges and a standalone School of Education offering a variety of undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degree programs. With multiple locations in northwestern Florida, the University offers more than 45 undergraduate degree programs, 25 master’s degree programs, two specialist degrees, a doctorate in education, and one PhD (in intelligence systems and robotics). Dedicated to helping students realize their full potential, UWF favors small class sizes with quality teacher-scholars who deliver personalized, hands-on learning, and leadership opportunities. The University offers a dynamic learning environment that inspires innovation, creativity, and collaboration and is focused on student success.